Hal Steinbrenner, with a dozen New York Yankees professionals, huddled for the first round of postseason meetings last week at Tampa. The meetings were spread across three days as the differences in point of view led to many heated exchanges. However, the Yankee owner confirmed that everybody is on the same page with regard to organizational development.
This week, the Yankees owner appeared before the fans for the first time after the team crashed out of the playoffs. He shared small insights from the meeting and promised significant changes. While he refused to elaborate on the details, many guess that it could be related to Aaron Boone or even Brian Cashman’s alleged firing.
Aaron Boone Likely To Stay As Yankee Manager In 2024!
New York Yankees decorated skipper Aaron Boone has come under fire this year owing to the team’s disgraceful performance. The team missed playoffs for the first time under his tenure, which tainted his success rate as manager. Thus, fans began speculating that a premature end might be on the cards as the team mulled a complete overhaul. It’s important to note that Boone has a contract till the end of 2024, with a club option for 2025. Amid raging rumors, Yankee owner Hal Steinbrenner dropped a major hint on the skipper’s future. In a recent interview, Hal confirmed incoming off-season changes. However, he stressed the fact that the changes need not necessarily include leadership personnel.
The statement suggests that the New York Yankees’ immediate leadership, consisting of general manager Brian Cashman and skipper Aaron Boone, would remain intact for the foreseeable future. However, the Yanks aren’t expected to make an official announcement just yet, says Andy Martino of SNY. He feels that since Boone is still under contract, making a separate announcement for his return does not make sense. Nevertheless, the fans can still expect a dedicated post-season press conference from the Yankee management. Brian Cashman and Hal Steinbrenner will appear before the media before the off-season officially concludes. Needless to say, the duo will face some tough questions. And needs to have thick skin at the same time to stand tall against the media trial.
After Japanese Ace, Yankees Interested In Korean Outfielder?
The New York Yankees seem desperate as they are hopping on foreign leagues to scout high-end players. After being strongly linked to Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the team is now reportedly interested in Korean outfielder Jung Hoo Lee. Brendan Kuty of The Athletic reported that the Yanks scouted Lee during his stint with Kiwoom Heroes in KBO.
Jung Hoo Lee is again a left-hander and will turn 25 next year. In 2023, he hit .318 with six homers, 45 RBIs, and .860 OPS across 86 games. His high RBI rate suggests that Lee is capable of driving runners in the scoring position. That is a trait that would interest Yankees skipper Aaron Judge. He needs exactly what Lee possesses, and thus, the Bombers’ interest in the Korean phenomenon is understandable.
